18 March 2019
From the Mayor’s desk
Waikato District Mayor Allan Sanson has expressed sympathy for the victims of last Friday’s horrific acts of terror at two mosques in Christchurch, where fifty people lost their lives.
“These were our people, New Zealanders, some of them refugees who had chosen to make our country home. They died meeting to pray at their Mosque. This was an absolute tragedy,” he said.
“There really are no words that can adequately describe how deeply sad this event was for the many families and individuals affected and for our country. Our Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described it as one of our darkest days.”
“Today and in the days and weeks to come, our thoughts are with the Muslim community here in the Waikato and in New Zealand and with the people of Christchurch too. Our hearts go out to you,” said Mayor Sanson.
Today Waikato District Council staff held a minutes silence in acknowledgement of those who lost their lives.